Falaniko Vitale

Former UFC and Strikeforce fighter, Falakino Vitale is set to fight Murilo “Ninja” in Shine Fight’s next edition, and spoke to TATAME.com about the upcoming challenge, his career and MMA and a lot more. Check below the exclusive interview with the fighter.

How are the training to the debut at Shine?

It’s pretty awesome. Have been training hard.

You're going to fight Ninja. How do you think this fight is gonna be?

Well I think it’s going to be great fight. We both bring a lot to the table. We fought many tough fighters and have a lot experience between us both. Definitely a war.

Ninja was considered one of the best in his division. How do you feel fighting a former Pride star?

Well I have a lot respect for Ninja...he awesome at what does. I feel that he's one of the top fighters in the world. It’s just an honor to be fighting a guy that is decorated as Ninja.

You already faced tough guys like Lawler, Lindland, Miller and Okami... Do you think Ninja is gonna be your toughest challenge? Why?

He's a lot different than most of the guy's I faced. Each of those fighters I fought had one strong point. Ninja is a balance fighter. Not sure if he would be the toughest...but definitely a tough opponent.

You don't fight since 2008. Why?

I've been taking a break. Fighting for 10 years can get to you. Just wanted to focus more on family and as for myself I've studying more about the sport. Training different styles and going back to my Jujitsu back ground.

Do you think this time off will be a problem to you?

I don't think so...I've been taking care of myself real well. Helping the other fighters to get ready for their fights has kept me in shape. I think it won't be a problem.

Most of your fights took place in Hawaii. How you decided to start in MMA?

It's a long story but I'll make it short. I got Interested in the sport when I first saw Royce Gracie beating all the bigger guys in the early UFCs. I wanted to be like Royce. After playing professional American Football...my friend introduce me to guy who trained under Relson Gracie in 1996. I trained Jujitsu under Kelly Matsukawa for a few years. The Training led me to my first fight Dec 1999. I felt I wasn't ready but being a competitive person as I am...I just wanted to try it once. After the referee raised my hand...I was hooked...LOL.

Your family supported this decision?

At first they thought I was crazy...but after watching me fight they are my biggest fans.

When someone think about Hawaii and MMA, BJ Penn always come to our minds. Have you ever trained with him? Do you know him?

I know BJ well. I trained with him and at his place before...but he lives on the Big Island and live on Oahu. Its unfortunate not to be able to train with him... but I definitely would if I was able to.

How this training helped you?

I've been training with different guys from different schools like Eric Kiahi, Chis Leben, Brandon Wolf, Scott Junk. It's hard to have quality training here in Hawaii because we have limited resources. But it doesn't matter to us. We are able to get by with what we have. We just put all our knowledge together and train hard.

You're a 10-years pro and fought in UFC, Strikeforce... Which was the best moment of your career and why?

My career had its moments...I just Praised God for giving me this talent to fight and compete. Through his grace he has kept me safe, healthy and I praise him for it. I'm just happy to be able to fight in the UFC and Strikeforce.

What are your goals now?

I'm going to take one fight at a time, not sure whats going to happen. But if everything pans out I want to be able to compete at the highest level. Hopefully a title shot in Strikeforce or the UFC.

Feel free to send a message to your fans and sponsors...

Just want to say "ALOHA" to all my fans, family and friends for their support. Especially to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who has made all this possible.